If ever there was a car that could change Americans' seriously outdated, preconceived notions about diesels, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI is it. Although BMW and Mercedes-Benz offer diesels in some of their models, VW is the only carmaker to offer diesel power for the masses. And like other modern diesels, its TDI (Turbocharged, Direct-Injection) engines are not slow, loud or gross polluters but rather are spirited performers that quietly and cleanly deliver fuel mileage significantly higher than their gas-drinking brethren.
Yes, hybrids are an amazing example of automotive technology, but if we're talking about spending $25- to $28,000, my money's going on the Jetta SportWagen TDI. I could give you three good reasons why, but I won't. I'll give you six.
Ever dream you could look like one of the pros in the Jetta TDI Cup? Well, with the release of the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition, that dream can become reality. The new Street Edition is based on a standard Jetta TDI, ensuring that you’ll still get everything you would come to expect from the revered Jetta TDI. But this model also has many of the same features as the race cars you see in the TDI Cup, including an aero front bumper, side skirts, and 18-inch wheels with high-performance tires. It even borrows the sport suspension and larger breaks from the Jetta GLI model. Add some gorgeous sports seats and some brushed aluminum door sills, and you’re on you’re well on your way to looking like you were born to race. Well, on second thought, we can only get you behind the wheel. Once the engine starts purring, you’re on your own…
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You’ll find twice as much cargo room behind the Jetta SportWagen’s rear seat compared with the Golf, which is the major advantage to the Jetta — 32.8 cubic feet versus 15 cubic feet. Surprisingly, the two cars stack up equally in other areas, though the Golf is the little sibling to the Jetta in VW’s lineup.
The extra cargo room doesn’t come free, though, and the Jetta SportWagen TDI starts at $24,615 compared with $22,760 for the Golf TDI four-door hatchback, not including destination charges. For the TDI models of each, gas mileage ratings are identical at 30/42 mpg city/highway for automatics and 30/41 mpg for manuals. Of the Jetta and Golf TDI models we’ve driven, both have a sporty driving character and firm ride. You’ll sacrifice cargo room with the Golf, but its overall length is shorter so if you’re a city dweller, this could help in urban parking and maneuverability. It’s still a four-door hatchback, so cargo versatility is still very good. Learn more
